Winter is in full swing, love is in the air, and the cherry blossoms are set to bloom soon, which could only mean one thing: February is upon us!
Whether you’re looking for some winter fun or a little romance, you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy in this Secret D.C. roundup of all of the best things to do in D.C. this February.
1. Honor Black History Month by supporting local black-owned businesses
February is Black History Month, and in a city as steeped in history as D.C. there are numerous ways to commemorate it—from museums to exhibits, to patronizing local businesses, and more!
Here are a few happenings and ways to honor the struggles and achievements of the Black community:
- Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- Check out one of these exhibits/plays:
- “Black Like Me” at the Zenith Gallery.
- “The High Ground” at Arena Stage.
- “Wild Seeds of the Soufside” at Phillips@THEARC.
- “Called to Create: Black Artists of the American South” at the National Gallery of Art.
- Patronize the Sweet Home Café for its Black History Month Chef’s Table.
2. Celebrate Valentine’s Day at one of D.C.’s most romantic restaurants
Valentine’s Day is an important day that requires careful and thoughtful planning in advance, so if you are interested in booking a dinner at one of D.C.’s most romantic restaurants be sure to book your table well in advance!
That being said, fine wining and dining is not and should not be limited to one day only, so even if you don’t plan to make a reservation for Valentine’s Day, don’t shy away from reserving a table for another day this February!
3. Explore a touring LEGO® exhibit that’s been to over 24 countries
A world-famous LEGO® exhibit just opened in D.C., featuring a whopping 130 sculptures. The Art of the Brick is really for anyone – art aficionados, LEGO®-obsessed kids, and even those simply seeking a new D.C.-based adventure.
We got a chance to see it firsthand and were amazed by artist Nathan Sawaya’s creations. From famous artwork like the Mona Lisa to a nearly 20-foot T-Rex, each masterpiece is as incredible as the next. Get tickets here!
4. Enjoy a unique happy hour at the Library of Congress
There are so many fun free activities in D.C., and Thursday evenings at the Library of Congress are no exception. Taking place every Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm, Live! At The Library includes access to the library’s exhibits, snacks and drinks, and special weekly events including music, performances, films, and more.
While you do have to pay for the food and drinks if you want something to sip or snack on, the experience is otherwise completely free!
5. Stimulate your senses by dining in the dark
Looking for an exciting surprise? What’s more exciting than a blindfolded dinner? Dining in the Dark allows you to pick a surprise three-course meal based on your dietary preferences (green for vegan, blue for seafood, or red for meat) that will stimulate your senses!
6. Enjoy the sounds of classical music by candlelight
The Fever Originals Candlelight series is the perfect way to unwind. You can lose yourself in classical renditions of your favorite tunes amid soft candlelight. With multiple genres and musical themes to choose from, there’s bound to be a concert that’s perfect for you!
- Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special ft. “Romeo and Juliet” and More
- Candlelight: Best of Hip-Hop on Strings
- Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More
7. Hit the ice at one of these magnificent skating rinks
The weather is getting colder, winter is upon us, and what better way to take it all in than with a favorite winter pastime: ice skating! Luckily, there are several easily accessible ice rinks around Washington, D.C., and the surrounding area. Check out some of our favorite ice rinks below, and you can find the full list here:
- National Gallery and Sculpture Garden Rink
- Washington Harbour Ice Rink
- The Wharf Ice Rink
8. Experience Shakespeare like never before
“All the world’s a stage,” and Drunk Shakespeare D.C. is hitting the stage like you’ve never experienced before! Grab a drink yourself and watch five classically-trained (and intoxicated) actors attempt to recreate some of Shakespeare’s most famous works to hilarious results!
9. Immerse all your senses at the Dopamine Land interactive exhibit
Truly one of the most unique and exciting immersive experiences to come to D.C. in recent memory, Dopamine Land is a must-visit for all Washingtonians and is perfect for any occasion whether it be with friends, family, or loved ones!
The space makes for an incredible visual experience and the photo-friendly atmosphere helps you take plenty of pictures to ensure you make a memory you won’t ever forget!
10. Visit the Orchids exhibit at the Kogod Courtyard of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery
You don’t have to be a plant lover to appreciate the peacefulness and tranquility that a room full of orchids has to offer!
So even though this is an absolute must-visit for any plant lovers in D.C. this week, the fact remains that this is a great plan to keep in your back pocket for any Washingtonian to do with friends or even for a unique date idea!
The annual exhibit, which is a collaboration between the U.S. Botanical Garden and the Smithsonian Gardens, will be open from February 14th until April 27th.
The exhibit features hundreds of live orchids and multi-media contemporary art pieces that complement the flower arrangements.
📍8th Street Northwest &, G St NW
11. Visit D.C.’s new giant pandas that just made their official debut last month
The two new giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Bao Li and Xing Bao, made their first official public appearance on January 24th, but now that the rush to see them has passed now is the perfect time to go!
12. Keep cozy with one of these delicious hot chocolates
Credit: Ice Cream JubileeAs the weather begins to get colder and we wake to frost layering the ground and cars, we’re officially entering hot chocolate season! A tasty, chocolatey cup of sweet goodness is key to keeping warm during cold D.C. winters and even boosting one’s intelligence! Here’s a sneak peek of some of our favorite D.C. spots to grab a cup of hot chocolate, and you can find the full list here:
- L.A. Burdick
- Colada Shop
- Sticky Fingers Diner
13. Immerse yourself in renowned art in 3D
What could be more awe-inspiring than immersing yourself in your favorite art?
Monet: The Immersive Experience allows you to do just that!
The exhibit uses incredible floor-to-ceiling projections to showcase Claude Monet’s most famous works, letting you immerse yourself in his greatest works.
14. Go on a nice walk to see some of D.C.’s most romantic spots
If you’d like to make Valentine’s Day special without having to spend a lot of money taking the time to plan a short activity like a walk around D.C.’s most romantic spots is a perfect way to make the day memorable show your significant other that you care. There are so many cute spots around this city that people might not be familiar with and planning a picnic or even just a simple walk through some of these spots could be the perfect way to enjoy an evening with your partner.
15. Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the festivities throughout the District
Starting on January 29th, several major events celebrating the Lunar New Year will occur during the first week of February!
This will include the Downtown Parade on February 2nd and special events held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art on February 1st, amongst many other events around town.